KRA boss Wattanga faces questions over data privacy in Finance Bill
Wattanga defended the agency's position, stating that the proposed clause is intended to improve tax compliance and help meet revenue targets.
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga was put on the spot over a controversial clause in the Finance Bill 2025, which proposes giving KRA unrestricted access to trade secrets and personal data.
Lawmakers and civil rights groups have raised concerns that the clause could violate Kenyans' rights to privacy, with the Law Society of Kenya among at least ten organizations opposing the move.
During a Finance Committee session, Chairman Kuria Kimani (Molo) criticized KRA for allegedly compromising taxpayer data through its iTax system.
He pointed out that with only a PIN, one can access sensitive information such as contact details, email address, home locations and places of employment.
MP Kimani defended accountability, stressing the need to protect data entrusted to the agency.
He also cited specific concerns over iTax business registration process that require individuals to submit manufactures phone numbers and residential addresses, calling it a direct breach of privacy.
"KRA must guarantee that the data provided by Kenyans is secure," he emphasized.
In response, Wattanga defended the agency's position, stating that the proposed clause is intended to improve tax compliance and help meet revenue targets.
He acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns and assured the public of KRAs commitment to resolving the issues.
KRA also dismissed claims that high taxes are forcing foreign companies to exit Kenya,stating that it has introduced various business friendly incentives.
The agency is aiming to collect 2.9 trillion in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
